The Karnataka High Court, on Tuesday, dismissed a criminal case against two individuals accused of raising "Jai Shri Ram" slogans inside a mosque. Justice M Nagaprasanna, leading the single-judge bench, stated that it was unclear how such slogans could offend the religious sentiments of any community.
The accused faced charges under IPC Section 295A for allegedly outraging religious feelings, as well as under Sections 447 (criminal trespass), 505 (public mischief), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 34 (common intention). The bench highlighted that the complainant had admitted that Hindus and Muslims in the area were living in harmony.
The court remarked that allowing further proceedings against the accused would amount to an abuse of legal process. Citing a Supreme Court ruling, it was noted that not every act falls under the purview of Section 295A of the IPC.
The police had reported that the accused entered the mosque on September 24, 2023, at around 10:50 p.m. and raised the slogans, also alleging threats. Initially, the accused were treated as unknown individuals, but they were later arrested.
Challenging the allegations, the accused filed an appeal with the Karnataka High Court, which ultimately led to the quashing of the case. The bench reiterated the complainant's assertion of harmony between the two communities while dismissing claims that the slogans would incite communal tension.
(With inputs from agencies)
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